'Chaos' at Gatwick as passengers told to go home without luggage

Passengers of four airlines at Gatwick airport have been advised to go home without their luggage, after baggage delays for up to five hours this morning.

Officials at the airport informed passengers of British Airways flights who had waited more than an hour on their bags being returned, and those on Monarch, Thomas Cook or Thompson flights who had been waiting 90 minutes or more, that their luggage would be forwarded to their home address.

It is understood easyJet passengers have also been affected but had not been advised to leave without their baggage.

Staff shortages with baggage handlers Swissport was the reason for the delay, a spokesman for the airport said.

"Due to resourcing issues with the baggage handlers Swissport there were overnight issues and delays with passengers' luggage on some flights.

"Gatwick provided extra staff to help the airlines and their baggage handlers improve their service, as well as providing welfare and water for passengers waiting in the baggage areas, but we are sorry for the delays they faced. Baggage operations are now returning to normal."

Frustrated passengers vented their anger on Twitter.

One said: "Chaos Gatwick-Airport thanks to £SwissPort and their poor service. 2 hours down and still waiting."